Sponsored by The Therapy Center at BGSP, this is a hybrid event. Participants may attend in-person at BGSP (1581 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA) or via Zoom.
This is the third and final event in the Fall 2026 Community Learning Series: Am I the Worst Parent in the World? The Challenges of Raising Children in 2026.
The Teen Years: Ceding Control, Cultivating Connection
As adolescents navigate more independence and the responsibility that comes with it, communication between parents and their children is key. But how do you foster better communication when teens are disappearing into their phones? Join us for a discussion of the challenges of parenting 13-18 year olds, how to better understand your teen, and how to keep the lines of communication open during these formative years.
Discussion Leaders
Michael Birkrant, Psya.D. LMHC is a licensed mental health counselor and current doctoral student in private practice, where he works with children, adolescents, adults, and families. He earned both his Master's in Psychoanalytic Counseling and Doctor of Psychoanalysis from BGSP and is also a Clinical Fellowship Graduate of the Boston Institute for Psychotherapy's School-Based Program. Drawing from extensive experience in outpatient therapy, inpatient psychiatric care, and school-based mental health, Dr. Birnkrant integrates evidence-based approaches including CBT, psychodynamic, and modern psychoanalytic therapy to help individuals and families navigate emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. He is passionate about equipping parents with practical strategies, while fostering a deeper understanding of child and family dynamics.
Tara Vilk, Psya.D. received her Master's of Psychoanalytical Counseling in 2011, followed by her Doctorate of Psychoanalysis in 2017; both from BGSP. Currently, she works full time in private practice with children and adults, couples, and families, and serves as on the adjunct faculty at BGSP; having taught at the master's level and The One Year Program courses and provided supervision for master's-level clinicians. Dr. Vilk credits her experience in the field to helping her communicate more effectively with her own two children, while working with other parents on how to do the same.
William Sharp, Psya.D. is a psychoanalyst with over 20 years of experience in private practice in Brookline, MA, while also serving on the faculty at BGSP and Northeastern University. His work includes helping families navigate the challenges of divorce and adoption. Dr. Sharp works within the relationship itself, with emotional insight and depth guiding the way and is committed to helping parents feel more grounded, connected, and confident as they support their children through change.
Objectives
The participant will be able to:
- Identify experiences that are taxing cognitive and emotional functioning and causing distress, and consider possible multi-layered variables affecting them.
- Identify three new ideas connected with a psychoanalytic understanding of developmental needs of this age group.
- Identify novel psychoanalytic methods of working with children of this age group and discuss possible ways this may enhance communication, understanding, and confidence, and lessen distress.
2 CE Units / Clock Hours Available
BGSP is authorized to provide CEs for: Psychologists (all levels), Social Workers, Counselors
Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. BGSP maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5676. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
Application for social work continuing education credits is being submitted. Please contact us at continuinged@bgsp.edu for the status of social work CE accreditation.
For information on continuing education credits for nurses, social workers, or marriage and family counseling, call (617) 277-3915.
Direct inquiries may be made regarding the accreditation status by NECHE to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact: New England Commission on Higher Education, 3 Burlington Woods Drive, Ste 100, Burlington, MA 01803-4514, at (781) 425-7785 or email: info@neche.org
The Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis is accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.
Direct inquiries may be made regarding the accreditation status by NECHE to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact: New England Commission on Higher Education, 3 Burlington Woods Drive, Ste 100, Burlington, MA 01803-4514, at (781) 425-7785 or email: info@neche.org
